Resume Tips

Will the person reading your resume be able to determine your qualifications in 30 seconds or less?


Keep that question in mind when writing your resume. In other words, don’t make the reader work too hard.

As someone who scans dozen of resume daily, I am usually able to determine in a matter of seconds if a candidate is someone i’d like to present to an employer. With that being said, here are some suggestions for making sure your resume is the best that it can be.

As the reader, I’m looking for key words that tell me if your background matches my client’s needs. So if your employer is a steel fabricator then say exactly that. Don’t assume the reader known what John Doe Company does. Provide one sentence stating your employer’s specialty.

Next to your position title indicate the projects you’ve worked, especially the ones that connect with the position you are applying for.

If your background is slightly different than the position you’re applying for, then list the skills you do offer that you believe an employer would respond to.

Include a cover letter if you think it will enhance your chances for an interview. If a resume doesn’t give you the space to list all your pertient experience, then a cover letter (no longer than a page) might be appropriate. Try not to rehash the exact same attributes already listed in your resume.  Also, a powerful opening statement, a grabber, could be what you need to alert the reader that you’re the right person for the job.

Just like in an interview, think like an employer, your resume should show how and why it is beneficial for the employer to consider you for their opening.

If you’re an entry-level candidate, indicate anything special that separates you from your fellow graduates. Items like perfect attendance, being a teacher’s aide, and internships are all great indicators that you could be someone an employer should definitely consider hiring.

A resume should be a clear, concise example of why you would be an intriguing person to interview. Remember, working hard is what you want to do for the employer. It’s not what the employer should do when reading your resume.